[Nothing proved his silent theory more than the blush spreading over that face. Years of associating with poker-faced politicians molded Edgar into quite the interpretor of body language.

His fingers reached for the tips of her hair through the bars as he murmured some more--]

Oh, come now. Let's not be so suddenly coy, Captain. Months at sea spent in the company of your men -- [He shudders at that thought.] -- yet you've no beard, no sunburn, and you do not reek of sweat, salt, or barbaric musk.

It's clever and almost perfect, I'll give you that much.